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How to Collect Imperial Japanese Army Infantry Equipment (Weapons)

As for the most fundamental military attire for Imperial Japanese Army soldiers, I have explained how to gather infantry equipment. This time, I'd like to provide an explanation about essential weapons indispensable for military attire. In contemporary Japan, it is legally prohibited for civilians, excluding Self-Defense Force personnel and police officers, to possess or carry firearms. However, if one applies and obtains permission from the police, it is possible to possess shotguns or rifles for the purpose of target shooting or hunting, provided it is within the approved scope of use. In Japan, it is impossible for civilians to possess…

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February 24th, 2024

Personal Belongings

Good Luck Flag

I would like to introduce the signed Japanese flag, known as the Good Luck Flag in English, and other related items that I acquired at the antique market. I purchased them at an auction specifically for dealers who have a license for dealing in antiques. We Japanese call it Shussei-Bata/出征旗, which means Deployment Flag. Enemy soldiers primarily obtained these flags from Japanese corpses or POW, so calling them "Good Luck Flag" feels rather ironic. In countries other than Japan, writing on the national flag can be perceived as a disrespectful act towards the flag. Therefore, it might seem strange to…

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February 10th, 2024

Clothing / Field Gears

Type 97 Sniper Rifle Scope Case

In my private collection, I have carrying cases (Shūyō-nō/収容嚢) for the Type 97 Sniper Scope (Kyūnana-shiki Sogeki Gankyō/九七式狙撃眼鏡), designed for the Type 97 sniper rifle (Kyūnana-shiki Sogeki Jū/九七式狙撃銃). As a matter of fact, I have two of them. It's not a standard piece of equipment, and originally, I had planned to introduce it at a later time. However, due to a recent opportunity, I've decided to pass one of them on to an acquaintance. With that in mind, I thought it would be a good idea to compare the two carrying cases for the sake of record-keeping, leading me to…

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January 16th, 2024

Clothing / Uniforms

S&Graf-manufactured Type 98 Summer Tunic Modification

In a previous article discussing replicas of the Type 98 Summer Tunic, I introduced S&Graf's products. While the fabric texture and overall silhouette are good, there are some disappointing aspects, making it a bit hesitant to wear as is. Therefore, I decided to create a modification by drafting a pattern from the authentic item, and I will share the details in this article. The process involved painstakingly undoing stitches and sewing anew, which took a considerable amount of time. However, the result is quite satisfying, significantly improving the overall condition. Comparison with the Authentic Item From left to right: the…

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January 4th, 2024

Clothing / Field Gears / For Beginners / Uniforms

How to Collect Imperial Japanese Army Infantry Equipment (Advanced)

I'd like to explain how to collect the basic infantry equipment for an Imperial Japanese Army soldier. Trying to assemble a complete uniform from the start can be quite challenging. Therefore, I'll provide guidance on what to collect, prioritizing items, over several installments. PriorityStandardBeginnerCollecting a military uniform.IntermediateCollecting official military-issued gears.AdvancedCollecting full kit In this advanced edition, I will introduce items that are not only essential for full kit but also pay attention to details that may not be readily visible. If you have been able to collect items up to this point, you should be well-equipped to participate in strict…

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December 23rd, 2023

Clothing / Uniforms

How to modify a cushion-style rank insignia into pin badges?

I will introduce a method for modifying the officially designated rank insignia known as "Zabuton" (cushion/座布団), which was standardized in 1938 (Showa 13), into pin badges. When enjoying various military uniforms of different ranks, it can be quite cumbersome to sew on rank insignias onto the collars every time. Not only is it inconvenient, but repeatedly threading the needle can also cause damage to the rank insignias themselves. While enthusiasts might not approve, feel free to give it a try as it won't be noticeable at a glance. You can create it through crafting using only adhesive without the need…

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December 4th, 2023

Clothing / Field Gears / For Beginners / Uniforms

How to Collect Imperial Japanese Army Infantry Equipment (Intermediate)

I'd like to explain how to collect the basic infantry equipment for an Imperial Japanese Army soldier. Trying to assemble a complete uniform from the start can be quite challenging. Therefore, I'll provide guidance on what to collect, prioritizing items, over several installments. PriorityStandardBeginnerCollecting a military uniform.IntermediateCollecting official military-issued gears.AdvancedCollecting full kit In this intermediate section, I will introduce the equipment that was left out in the beginner's section due to budget considerations. By completing the intermediate section, you'll have most of the essential items for a Japanese Army infantryman's basic uniform. Once you can pull off this look, you'll…

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November 30th, 2023